On June 18, 2022, the NHA Environmental Committee hosted the educational session, Is Our Drinking Water In Good Health?
On Saturday, June 18, 2022, the NHA Environmental Committee hosted a program with Susan Brown, Assistant Superintendent, Orleans Water Department, who spoke with members about the quality and safety of our town’s public drinking water.
For decades, Orleans residents have taken their water for granted and in fact, it has received several state-wide awards for its quality. However, In the last few years, Cape Cod towns like Chatham and Barnstable, had to take action when their public drinking water was found to be contaminated by polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS.
PFAS are toxic “forever’ chemicals” that persist in the environment and have been linked to cancer and other health problems. There are approximately 3,000 different PFAS and have been found in drinking water in almost 1,400 sites across 49 states.
Sue Brown’s presentation was extremely informative, helping us understand the source of PFAS contamination, why they can be found be in the Cape’s drinking water and groundwater, and what steps Orleans is already taking to protect our water supply against future threats to keep it in good health.
Download Water Program Handout [PDF]
